FIBA has confirmed the schedule and venues for the fourth window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Iran will play both of its second-round matches in Manila, Philippines, as Team Melli begins its push for a place at the global tournament.
The fourth qualifying window will take place from Aug. 27 to Aug. 31. It marks the start of the second round, where the remaining 12 national teams will compete for qualification spots at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Iran will compete in Group E alongside Australia, Jordan, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Syria. Every game will carry significant importance because first-round results transfer directly into the second stage.
Team Melli will open the window against New Zealand on Aug. 28. The game will begin at 9:30 a.m. Iran time in Manila. Iran will then face tournament co-host the Philippines on Aug. 30 at 3:30 p.m. Iran time. Both contests will take place in the Philippine capital.
Meanwhile, Group F includes China, Japan, South Korea, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and host nation Qatar. Unlike Group E, teams in Group F will play their games on a home-and-away basis during the second round.
The qualification format leaves little room for mistakes. The top three teams from each group will secure places at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup. In addition, the best fourth-placed team across both groups will also advance.
Qatar has already qualified automatically because it will host the tournament. Therefore, seven additional teams from Asia and Oceania will earn places through the qualification process.
FIBA’s decision to carry over first-round results increases the pressure on every remaining fixture. Consequently, teams must build on their earlier performances instead of starting with a clean slate.
Iran will aim to strengthen its position against two strong opponents in Manila. Positive results could significantly improve Team Melli’s chances of reaching another FIBA Basketball World Cup and maintaining its presence among Asia’s leading basketball nations.